Speaking before Friday's preliminary semi-final, the 30-year-old continued: "From now on, it's sudden death for everyone. If we want to progress, we have to perform well and beat the reigning champions."

Brown has admitted that he was unsure of how best to utilise the 2008 World Cup winner in the early part of the season, but the former Huddersfield coach believes Hohaia has been close to his best form in recent matches when paired with Jon Wilkin at half-back.

Please turn on JavaScript. Media requires JavaScript to play.

Hohaia conundrum puzzled Brown

"He's a unique player in that there are lots of positions he can play and I don't think I was using him in the best manner to suit him," said Brown. "His form has been super lately and I think the style of play probably suits him better.

"When a player of Lance's capabilities isn't playing so well, it's not always the player's fault and it's not always the coach's fault. There can be a number of reasons that can cause that.

"In Lance's case - injuries, not quite the right style, maybe a lack of confidence - a combination of everything went against him.

"To his credit, he trained hard and was great around the squad when he wasn't playing. Now he's come back in, his body is fully fit and he's playing terrific."

BBC links

This page is best viewed in an up-to-date web browser with style sheets (CSS) enabled. While you will be able to view the content of this page in your current browser, you will not be able to get the full visual experience. Please consider upgrading your browser software or enabling style sheets (CSS) if you are able to do so.